Smith admits Maroons job ‘something to consider’ after Slater’s shock exit
Cameron Smith has admitted he would consider taking over as Queensland Maroons coach after Billy Slater stepped down from the role.
The Queensland Rugby League (QRL) confirmed in a statement on Friday afternoon the legendary Maroons fullback would not continue in the role in 2027.
Billy Slater (left) and Johnathan Thurston at the MCG ahead of game two of this year’s State of Origin series. Getty
Slater, 43, finishes with three series wins from five State of Origin series in charge, spanning 2022 to 2026.
Last month’s game-three loss marked Queensland’s second defeat in a Suncorp Stadium decider in three years. The Maroons also lost game one of last year’s series at Suncorp Stadium.
Slater revealed in the lead-up to this year’s decider that he wouldn’t be signing another contract – but he didn’t rule out continuing in 2027.
He explained he was operating on a handshake basis.
His decision to resign fuels speculation he could join the Melbourne Storm and replace Craig Bellamy after 2027, but Slater told 9News he had nothing planned.
“This decision is made on its own merits. I don’t have anything else in the future that I’m looking forward to. It was purely the fact I feel it’s the right time to step back from this,” Slater said.
Slater’s assistant Johnathan Thurston told 9News Queensland he had “no indication” that the head coach would leave the role.
“It did catch me by surprise,” he said.
Thurston said he’d had no discussions with anyone about replacing Slater.
Fellow Maroons legend Smith said he, too, was “surprised” by Slater’s decision and has since been bombarded with questions about whether he’ll coach.
He didn’t shut the idea down.
“It’s been a really short period of time since talking to Bill ... To be honest, I really didn’t think Billy would step down this year, so I haven’t thought about it,” Smith said on 2GB’s Sports Today.
“But it’s something definitely to consider. I’m a lot like Billy; I love the state of Queensland, the people and the jersey. I was fortunate enough to spend two years with Billy as an assistant coach in 2022 and 2023, and had a fantastic time.
Cameron Smith and Johnathan Thurston during Maroons training. Getty
“I’d have to speak with my family first and foremost. That’d be the deciding factor.”
Earlier in the day, after resigning as Maroons coach, Slater had spoken of just how much the role meant to him.
“From being a boy who idolised this team, to a player, to guiding a group that has inspired our state, this has been one of the most rewarding things I’ve done in my life,” Slater said.
“I want to thank the players. This group gave everything for the jersey, for each other and our state, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together.
“To the staff, and to the QRL for the opportunity to lead this team, thank you.
“And to my fellow Queenslanders, thank you for the trust you put in me to be our coach.
“Being a Queenslander has always been a huge part of who I am, and that will never change.”
Billy Slater and Reuben Cotter embrace after Queensland’s victory in the 2025 series decider. Getty Images.
Slater, who inherited the Queensland job from the late Paul Green, won his first two series at the helm, in 2022 and 2023.
In 2024, Michael Maguire engineered a NSW victory in a Suncorp Stadium decider, in his one year in the job.
Slater then orchestrated a Maroons victory in an Accor Stadium decider in 2025, before Laurie Daley’s Blues stormed Suncorp this year.
Slater made several massive selection decisions in his five years as Maroons coach.
The most significant was the call to axe captain and champion halfback Daly Cherry-Evans after game one of the 2025 series to make way for young gun Tom Dearden.
The move proved a masterstroke.
QRL chairman Brian Canavan said Slater had made an “extraordinary contribution” to rugby league in Queensland, both as a player and coach.
Slater after last month’s game-three loss at Suncorp Stadium. Chris Hyde/Getty Images.
“Over the past five seasons he has led the Maroons with authenticity, pride and a deep understanding of what it means to represent this state,” Canavan added.
“He has helped shape a new generation of Queensland players, sharing the values and standards that have defined the Maroons for decades.
“On behalf of the Queensland Rugby League, I want to sincerely thank Billy for his commitment, leadership and service.
“His impact on our organisation and on Queenslanders everywhere will be felt long after his tenure as coach concludes.”
